The most rewarding, life-changing and incredible experience I will ever have!!! Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/13/2013 to 05/15/2013 with

DIS Copenhagen: Semester

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a new love for the Danish culture and traveling in Europe. I learned to get out of my comfort zone and independence. It was the most worthwhile experience I have ever experienced.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was perfectly placed. I never thought I would love my roommate and the people who I live with so much. It was amazing!

* Food:

Healthy and amazing. The best sandwiches I have ever had. I will never find one that is that good in the states.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I was set up with a visiting family and they opened my eyes and made be feel at home in Denmark. I will always have them in my life and for that I will always be thankful.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Thankfully I never had any serious problems, but I did sprain my ankle in Spain. When I landed I called my doctor right away and he let me come in whenever I needed. He was helpful and kind and I did not need to pay a thing. Yeah free healthcare!!

* Safety:

I am from New York City and I felt more comfortable walking in the streets of Copenhagen at night then I ever felt in New York City. I felt so safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Copenhagen is expensive, but DIS helped a lot and if you are smart about your money you should be good.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Buy lunch, cook dinner. Lunch is $10 or less, but dinner could be more than twice that.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

You do not need to take the class, but I highly advise it. It is a great way to understand the culture and language around you.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Danish language and Culture 1
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice. Read signs, stories and anything in danish. Also listen to music and watch youtube clips in danish.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • People (Americans and Danes)
  • Danish Culture
  • Going out and Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • Nothing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Nothing I would not change a thing